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Tubule-containing inclusions in the epithelial cells of the mouse epididymal duct

K Abe, H Takano, T Ito

    Archivum Histologicum Japonicum = Nihon Soshikigaku Kiroku
    |February 1, 1983
    PubMed

    Insights

    Electron microscopy revealed unique rod-shaped inclusions in mouse epididymis principal cells. These structures contain bundled tubules with filament-like subunits, suggesting a role in epididymal function.

    Area of Science:

    • Reproductive Biology
    • Cell Biology
    • Histology

    Background:

    • The epididymis is crucial for sperm maturation and storage.
    • Principal cells lining the epididymal duct play specialized roles in this process.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the ultrastructure of inclusions within principal cells of the mouse epididymis.
    • To elucidate the composition and potential function of these unique cellular structures.

    Main Methods:

    • Electron microscopy was employed to examine the fine structure of the mouse epididymis.
    • Goniometric analysis was used to study the arrangement of subunits within the inclusions.

    Main Results:

    • Rod-shaped inclusions (0.3-1.0 µm diameter, 2-5 µm height) were consistently observed in principal cells of the epididymal body.
    • These inclusions contained bundles of tubules (approx. 40 nm diameter) with hexagonal arrangement and filament-like subunits forming loose spirals.
    • Occasionally, inclusions contained material resembling lysosomal bodies.

    Conclusions:

    • The identified inclusions possess a complex, organized ultrastructure within epididymal principal cells.
    • Their consistent presence and unique morphology suggest a specific, yet-to-be-fully-defined function related to epididymal physiology.

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